Why is additive manufacturing a game changer for the defence , aerospace and maritime sectors ?
• The method enables rapid , safer , less wasteful prototyping and shortens development for key components like engine parts and turbine blades
• It ’ s more flexible , enabling on-demand production and customisation which is useful for mission-specific repairs and designs
• Parts can be manufactured that are both durable and lightweight , making transportation significantly easier means , leading to long lead times . This is not the case with additive manufacturing , which also removes the need to secure high stock levels and navigate supply chains .
“ It ’ s certainly still pioneering work , but the breakthrough has been achieved ,” Stefan Lengowski , Senior Project Engineer ( PLF ) at ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems says .
“ Digitalisation can be experienced here and now . For me , the question about possibility no longer arises . Instead , I ask : ‘ Where else is it possible and applicable ?’”
• The method supports supply chain resilience by decentralising production , reducing the need for extensive inventories
• Because everything including plans is stored digitally forever , theft or loss of sensitive parts is mitigated
• Aircraft and military equipment needs to be high-performance , weight-sensitive and capable of enduring a range of temperatures and environments . Additive manufacturing can more easily create advanced materials like heat-resistant alloys
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